St Paul at Melita

St Paul at Melita

Cardinal John Henry Newman

"And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat."

Secure in his prophetic strength, The water peril o'er, The many-gifted man at length Stepp'd on the promised shore. He trod the shore; but not to rest Nor wait till Angels came; Lo! Humblest pains the Saint attest, The firebrands and the flame. But, when he felt the viper's smart, Then instant aid was given; Christian! Hence learn to do thy part, And leave the rest to Heaven.